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Travel guide: Best time to visit Spain and other details

Team AckoFeb 27, 2024

Spain is a travel destination like no other. It is the second most visited country in the world and is popular for its vibrant culture, football, flamenco dance, amazing wine and food scene. If you are planning a trip to tapas land and wondering when is the best time to visit Spain, then your search ends here. Here is an article highlighting the best time to travel to Spain based on activities, weather, tourist trends, and main events happening in the country. You can base your decision on your travel preferences, budget, and activities you plan to do.

Contents

When is the best time to visit Spain

The best time to visit Spain is from March to May, and from September to November. During these months, you will get pleasant weather conditions, comparatively fewer crowds, and better deals on accommodation and flights. So you not only get to save money but also spend less time in long lines at famous spots. During springtime, it's often warm enough to hit the beaches, and multiple festivals are happening across the country. No matter what time of the year you visit Spain, you will fall in love with this beautiful country. It should be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Spain has so much to offer tourists that it has become a year-round travel destination. You will get to experience delicious food, world-class wines, mind-blowing architecture and history, museums, crazy parties, and pristine beaches. Once you have decided on your to-do list, you can decide the best time to visit Spain for you. Weather conditions will have an impact on your travel itinerary. It is worth noting that sometimes during the low season between November and March, some of the smaller businesses and restaurants might be shut or have different operating hours.

The best season to visit Spain

The best seasons to visit Spain are spring and fall. The weather is pleasant, there are fewer people, and there are numerous outdoor and indoor activities to choose from. Unless you are looking for something in particular like winter sports or uninterrupted beach time, we recommend visiting Spain during spring and fall. Spain is a big country with wide-ranging ecosystems. It boasts of getting over 3000 hours of sunshine per year. Temperature and other weather conditions vary by season, but the differences are not as pronounced as in other European countries. They also vary according to regions in Spain. The northern parts of Spain are always colder and wetter compared to the south. The Canary Islands are pleasant all year.

Peak season

The summer months from July to August are considered the peak tourist season for the number of people visiting the country. If you are planning to visit Spain during these months, then make sure to make all your hotel and travel bookings in advance. You will need to reserve a spot at all the major tourist attractions like La Sagrada Familia and the Alhambra a few months in advance. Summer is the most expensive time to visit Spain. Many locals leave the cities and move towards the beaches to beat the heat.

Shoulder season

Spring months from March to May and autumn months from August to November are considered shoulder seasons to visit Spain. In recent times, the country has seen a surge of tourists during these months. Many consider these months the best time of the year to visit Spain, as you get pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Also, many major festivals in Spain are celebrated during the spring and autumn seasons, which attract many tourists looking for splendid cultural experiences. Popular bullfighting and the Tomatina festival are held during the autumn months.

Low season

January and February are particularly low-season months for visiting Spain. The holiday season is over, days are short, and temperatures are at their lowest, resulting in minimal crowds. If you are a budget traveller and don’t mind the cold, gloomy weather, then this is the best time to visit Spain. Also, if you are into snow activities like skiing, then head to northern Spain during this time. It is easy to get great deals on accommodation and flights. Many tourist attractions and museums offer reduced entry prices and sometimes free admission.

Things to consider before visiting Spain

If you are planning a trip to Spain, then keep the following in mind.

• Weather will have an impact on your itinerary. So, prioritise the things you want to see in Spain and then decide the best time to visit.

• There are many local festivals and events held throughout the year in Spain. So, if you want to attend a particular event, then plan around those dates, or if you want to avoid massive crowds, then avoid travelling during major festivals.

• Hotels, especially in cities like Barcelona, can get expensive during the peak travel season. So plan and book in advance.

• Major attractions and tours in Spain need to be booked in advance. Don’t forget that it is the second-most visited country in the world.

• Different regions in Spain offer completely different experiences.

• Food and wine are huge parts of Spain. So, enjoy incredible wines with extraordinary culinary experiences.

A month-by-month guide to travelling to Spain

Here’s a month-wise guide to help you plan your stay in Spain.

Spain in January

January is the low season for tourists in Spain. You can visit Spain's major tourist attractions without encountering crowds or waiting in long lines. Accommodation prices in Spain are also comparatively cheaper in January. Being a Mediterranean country, Spain's weather in January is mild compared to other parts of Europe. The country experiences little to no rain in January, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hikes, city tours, and snow activities. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, then head to the country’s snow-covered northern slopes. For skiing and snowboarding, head to the Sierra Nevada mountains. The Pyrenees and Picos de Europa are other options for winter activities in Spain. Weather conditions vary in different parts of Spain. The average daytime temperature in mainland Spain can range between 10°C and 16°C. Places in southern Spain like Malaga have the warmest weather, around 16°C, while the temperature in cities like Madrid in central Spain can drop to as low as 3°C. If you are looking for warm weather in January, head to the Canary Islands, which experience highs of 20 °C even in January.

Average temperature in Spain in January: In January, the average temperature in Spain ranges between 1°C and 10°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in January: Winter activities in North Spain
Festivals in Spain in January: Three Kings Day, San Sebastian Festival

Spain in February

February is an underrated month for travelling around Spain. But the country has a lot to offer tourists who plan to visit in the off-season month of February. Skiing and other snow activities in the Sierra Nevada peaks at the magnificent Canary Islands and their national parks. Most historic cities in Spain are worth visiting in February, as there are few tourists and you can explore the historic sites with ease. Whether you are looking for cold or warm weather in Spain in February, the country has something to offer everyone. It is decently cold, but it rains often in Madrid and northern Spain (Galicia, Bilbao). Southern Spain is warm and comfortable in February. The southern cities of Malaga and Seville have warm weather in February, with average temperatures ranging between 8°C and 18°C. The winter in Madrid is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C. Many festivals and carnivals are being celebrated to mark the beginning of Lent. So head to Cadiz, Jerez, or the Canary Islands for big parties this time of the year. Don’t forget to put on your dancing shoes and have loads of sangria. The Festival of Jerez, which is a popular flamenco festival in Spain, is also held in February.

Average Temperature in Spain in February: Between 2°C to 12°C
Reasons to visit Spain in February: Few tourists, good deals on accommodation and flights, mild weather, many festivals and celebrations
Festivals in Spain in February: Carnival, Festival de Jerez

Spain in March

March marks the beginning of the spring season in Spain. Since it is the end of winter, the whole country comes to life. The lively atmosphere can also be experienced at many festivals being celebrated across the country. The Las Fallas Festival in Valencia cannot be missed if you are visiting Spain in March. If you want to immerse yourself in Spanish vibes and culture, then March is the best time to visit Spain. Tourist attractions are still not over crowded as the country sees fewer tourists around this time. Less crowding and less expensive hotels make March an ideal time to visit bigger cities like Barcelona and Madrid. March is also an ideal time for outdoor hikes, as it is still not super hot. Also, it is the best time to visit popular museums and churches in Spain. Spain's weather in March can be unpredictable. So pack for all weather—summer, winter, and rain. In a matter of hours, you can go from a clear sky and sunny weather to sudden showers and chilled weather. Coastal areas like Malaga get as hot as 19°C during the day and around 9 °C at night. Temperature in Madrid can range anywhere from 4°C to 16°C. Northern Spain gets frequent rain in March.

Average temperature in Spain in March: In March, the average temperature in Spain ranges between 4°C and 16°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in March: Less crowded
Festivals in Spain in March: March festivals in Spain include Semana Santa, Las Fallas, Sant Medir, and Semana Santa.

Spain in April

If you want mild weather and to avoid the peak season crowds in May, April is the best time to visit Spain. The weather in April is still unpredictable. The weather is comfortably warm to be outdoors during the day and also enjoy some time at the beach. In the evenings, it gets slightly chilly. Since Spain is huge, weather conditions vary in different regions. Coastal cities like Barcelona and Malaga can get as warm as 20°C during the day and drop to 11°C in the evening. while the temperature in cities like San Sebastian and Bilbao in the north ranges between 7 and 17°C. It is the perfect time for outdoor activities, festivals, hikes, and mountain biking. If you want to explore the local culinary scene in Spain, then April is a very good time. Restaurants start opening their outdoor terraces in April. Markets are full of local fresh produce like asparagus, fennel, peas, carrots, radish, and artichokes, and most local restaurants use them in their delicacies.

Average temperatures in Spain in April: The average temperature in Spain ranges between 5°C and 17°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in April: Still not overcrowded, with moderate pricing, the spring season is at its peak, ideal for outdoor activities and hikes, making it the best time to explore national parks.
Festivals in Spain in April: Feria de Abril, Feria del Queso, Festimad

Spain in May

Spain in May is exquisite. From north to south, all parts of Spain can be visited during May. It is the best month to visit Spain, as the weather is ideal for all possible activities. The sky is clear, with comfortably warm days and pleasant evenings, making it ideal for sightseeing as well as visiting beaches. If you want to explore hikes in Spain, go paragliding, or take a hot air balloon ride, then head to Spain in May. In May, tourists begin to arrive on the coast, including the islands. It is also the season for bullfighting and the annual Madrid Open. If you are into the crazy party scene in Barcelona and Ibiza, then it begins in May. Visiting Spain in May is like experiencing the best of the country with divine weather just before the peak tourist season begins. Spend your time appreciating the splendid architecture of Granada and wandering around the streets of Barcelona and Madrid.

Average temperature in Spain in May: In May, the average temperature in Spain ranges between 8°C and 22°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in May: perfect summer weather, the beginning of party season, warm beaches, bullfighting, hikes, and other outdoor activities.
Festivals in Spain in May: Bullfighting, Cordoba Patios Festival, Madrid Open

Spain in June

Spain's weather in June guarantees good summer heat. If you are heading to Spain for the beaches, then you do not need to think any further. June is full of long, sunny days throughout the country. Many tourists begin to come this time of the year, and accommodations and flight tickets start getting pricey. Most businesses start charging peak season rates in June. Make sure to make prior bookings when visiting Spain in June. It is advisable to reserve tickets for main attractions and museums beforehand. It is hot in June, so make sure your hotel has air conditioning. Northern Spain has a few degrees lower temperatures than the central and southern regions. If you want slightly cooler weather, head to the Balearic islands of Mallorca, Bilbao, and San Sebastian. Many tourists and locals head to Tarifa to catch stellar winds for kitesurfing. There are several unique festivals held in June. During the Batalla de Vino de Haro, people climb a hill and celebrate by throwing wine at each other. The night of Saint John is spent at the beach, chatting and singing with friends and family. The Water and Ham Festival in Granada is a traditional and fun Spanish water fight.

Average temperature in Spain in June: In June, the average temperature in Spain ranges between 13°C and 29°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in June: Warm summer weather, endless sun for beaches, kite surfing.
Festivals in Spain in June: Photo Espana, the Water and Ham Festival, Batalla de Vino de Haro, and the Night of Saint John

Spain in July

July is the busiest time of the year for a Spanish vacation. Tourists abound in every city, from the north to the south to the islands. There are long lines at museums and other attractions. With peak season pricing, all types of accommodations are extremely expensive and are booked months in advance. Prior reservations are recommended for hotels, restaurants, and major attractions. With unlimited, uninterrupted sun, beaches in Spain get crowded in July. Both locals and tourists head towards the coast for the cool sea breeze and views. Even though it gets crowded, your visit to Spain would still be memorable. The county comes to life with long days and plenty of festivals to attend. Immerse yourself in tapas, wine, and Spanish culture. Don’t forget to experience participating in or just witnessing the wild running of the bull or San Fermin. It is quite a unique sight. If music is your cup of tea, then do attend the Benicassim Festival. It is a four-day music festival with a fantastic lineup of artists.

Average temperature in Spain in July: In July, the average temperature in Spain ranges between 16°C and 33°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in July: Vibrant nightlife
Festivals in Spain in July: San Fermin, Sanlucar de Barrameda, Benicassim Festival.

Spain in August

Spain's weather in August is hot. It is the hottest time of the year in Spain. Most locals from Madrid and other inland areas head to the beach. Many local businesses are closed around this time of the year. Spain is a fantastic beach vacation destination with beautiful beaches and islands. The Basque Country, Galicia, and Asturias are beautiful areas to visit with pleasant weather in August. The Canary Islands and Barcelona and its nearby coastal towns are highly preferred by tourists. You can expect packed beaches. Daytime temperatures in southern inland Spain, including Seville and Cordoba, can reach 37 °C. August sees heavy tourist activity in Spain, and everything from beaches to streets to restaurants gets busier than normal. Prior reservations are highly recommended. There is no better place to go for wild parties than the island of Ibiza. During the day, you can opt for boat parties and then head to world-renowned clubs at night. The world-famous La Tomatina festival is also held in Bunol in August (on the last Wednesday of the month).

The average temperature in Spain in August: Ranges between 16°C and 33°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in August: best beach weather; La Tomatina festival; crazy parties; the Basque region at its best.
Festivals in Spain in August: La Tomatina, Semana Grande

Spain in September

The weather in Spain cools down a bit in September, and the beaches and streets see fewer tourists. It is the end of peak tourist season, and it is a lovely time to wander around Spain. The sun is more bearable, making it an ideal time for city tours. Locals are back in the inland cities of Madrid, and businesses are starting to open up again. You can experience excellent tapas and wine on the streets of Spain in September. If you are a wine lover, then September is the best month to visit Spain. It is the prime grape harvest season and a great time to visit vineyards and taste the finest wines of Spain. You can opt for a wine-tasting tour or head to different wineries on your own. Some traditional wineries also let you crush grapes with your feet. The San Mateo Festival in the La Rioja region celebrates the local harvest and is a treat for all wine and music lovers. Another popular cultural event in September is the Festa de la Merce. It is held around Barcelona and celebrates Barcelona’s patron saint.

Average temperature in Spain in September: Ranges between 14°C and 29°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in September: Grape harvest season, still warm enough for some beach time.
Festivals in Spain in September: San Mateo Festival, Festa de la Merce, San Sebastian Film Fest

Spain in October

October is an excellent month to visit Spain. Not only are there fewer tourists and prices lower in October, but the weather in Spain is also pleasant with mild temperatures. So you can explore the country without mass tourism. Choose from iconic sites and churches, national parks, museums, and beaches. If you want to experience Spanish culture, there are many magical festivals in October, like Zaragoza’s Fiestas del Pilar and Fiestas of San Froilán. Spain's largest flamenco festival, the Bienal de Flamenco, is conducted once every two years in Seville. October is the last month to explore Spain's mainland while it is still warm during the day. With an average temperature of 21°C, you can comfortably explore the Spanish cities of Barcelona, Malaga, and Seville. It can get slightly chilly in the evening, so pack accordingly. If you want to visit Spain in October, go to the Canary Islands, where the temperature is still around 26 degrees Celsius during the day. Head to the Andalusia region in southern Spain if you're looking to explore the architectural marvels of Spain.

The average temperature in Spain in October: Ranges between 9°C and 21°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in October: Surfing in North Spain, and a good time to visit the Andalusia region.
Festivals in Spain in October: Bienal de Flamenco, Week of Architecture, Zaragoza’s Fiestas del Pilar, Fiestas of San Froilán

Spain in November

If you are planning a European vacation in November, then Spain is a good option. The country still has mild weather conditions in November compared to other European countries. Even though it rains in most parts of Spain in November, you can still get traces of sun during the day. Expect 10 to 15 days of rain in November, especially in northern cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián. Mediterranean coastal areas are slightly warmer, with an average temperature of 18 °C. It is low season in Spain, and you can enjoy quiet cities with few crowds at top attractions. If you are looking for cheap flights to Spain, November is a good time to book. Even though it is cold, there is still a lot to explore in Spain in November. Two international events in November are the sherry festival in Jerez and the jazz festival in Madrid. Then, in November, there are regional Spanish festivals such as the Orujo Festival and the Benidorm Fiestas.

Average temperature in Spain in November: Ranges between 4°C and 15°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in November: Hardly any tourists, festivals, no queues, affordable
Festivals in Spain in November: International Sherry Festival, Jazz Festival, Orujo Festival, Benidorm Fiestas

Spain in December

Most regions in Spain get cold in December, but the country is filled with Christmas spirit and celebrations. The country is full of colourful lights, magnificent decorations, and Christmas markets. These result in a perfect Spanish holiday season. The celebrations and markets are spread throughout Spain, with plenty of shopping and food options. Barcelona and Seville are the grandest and most popular Christmas markets in Spain. For a different experience, you can visit Malaga for a wild light display. The whole city of Malaga is lit up with strings of fairy lights. If you are in Spain for the New Year, then there is no better option than Puerto del Sol in Madrid. Massive crowds gather and celebrate to bring in the New Year at midnight. Don’t skip the tradition of welcoming New Year's in Spain with twelve grapes, one for each chime. The Sierra Nevada mountain region is the most popular skiing and winter sports destination in Spain. If you are looking for warm weather in December, then head to the Caribbean beaches.

Average temperature in Spain in December: Ranges between 2°C and 11°C.
Reasons to visit Spain in December: The holiday season, Christmas markets, winter sports, and few tourists
Festivals in Spain in December: Christmas Markets, Malaga Light Displays

When is the cheapest time to visit Spain?

The low season months are the cheapest and best times to visit Spain on a budget. In Spain, the winter months from December to March see a minimum number of tourists, making the hotel and other prices more affordable for travellers.

When is the most expensive time to visit Spain?

The high tourist season in Spain is from June to August. These are the most expensive months to travel to Spain as all businesses charge peak season rates. If you are planning to visit Spain during the summer months then make all your reservations months in advance.

When is the best time to visit Spain for a honeymoon?

The best time to visit Spain for a honeymoon is in April, May, September, and October. Spain is one of the most romantic countries in the world. The country is filled with romantic towns and cities like Ronda, Granada, Seville, and Toledo. Then there are the pristine Mediterranean beaches in Spain, making it an ideal honeymoon destination.

Now that you are all set for your Spain experience, don't forget the most important thing-travel insurance online. It’s always a good idea to consider travel insurance to safeguard your trip. It may seem like a small step, but it can provide coverage for unexpected events like medical expenses, flight cancellations and delays, lost baggage, and more. So, take this extra step to make sure your trip is worry-free and unforgettable.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the warmest months to visit Spain?

The summer months of June, July, and August are the hottest months to travel to Spain. The temperature can go as high as 35 °C in some regions of Spain during these months.

Which is the best month to visit Spain?

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are the best months to visit Spain. If you are looking for mild weather conditions and a lesser crowd, then head to Spain from March to May or August to November.

What is the tourist season in Spain?

The peak tourist season in Spain is from June to August.

How many days are enough for Spain?

Spain is a vast country that needs time to be explored. A minimum of 10 to 14 days are required to travel around Spain.

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.